All this week we are giving you the chance to be in the big draw on Friday for our trip to theopera in Verona to see Carmen in association with the Travel Department.

Travel Department is a leading tour operator in Ireland specialising in guided group holidays to over 100 different destinations all over the world. Lake Garda, Venice & Verona Opera Holiday withRTE lyric fm’s Marty Whelan. 7 Nights for 2 people!

Carmen at the Arena di Verona, 2015.

Join me for the opera trip of a lifetime. During this magical holiday, explore the historic towns that hug the coast of Lake Garda and stroll through quaint streets and squares, all set in the tranquil surroundings of blue waters and towering mountains. You will take in an unforgettable performance of Bizet's Carmen at the Arena di Verona, which is sure to leave you spellbound. First performed in 1875, Bizet’s acclaimed masterpiece tells the story of the downfall of Don Jose, a naïve soldier who is seduced by the fiery gypsy, Carmen.

There are two further excursions included in this 7-night holiday. In Venice, gaze upon St. Mark’s Basilica; watch gondolas sail along the canals, and admire the stunning piazzas, bridges and gothic buildings that make this city so magnificent. You will also take a guided boat trip of Lake Garda to view some of the beautiful sites and places of interest on the lake, including stops in the towns of Malcesine and Limone.With the serene waters of Lake Garda, the unique beauty of Venice, and the classic Italian romance of Verona, this trip to Italy is the perfect combination of opera, culture and history.

Travel Department offer holidays to suit a range of tastes and interests…...whether it’s some down time in down town San Francisco, a trip to discover the secrets of the Great Wall of China or soaking up the culture and sights in stunning Sorrento

Just answer the simple question set each day to be in with a chance to be in the draw on Friday:

TEXT: 51554 or email: marty.lyricfm@rte.ie Traveldepartment.ie for full details of all holidays.

Marty in the Morning

Marty takes the chill out of your early Winter mornings with music, news, weather and travel updates.

Marty meets Friar Alessandro

Marty meets Friar Alessandro, known as the Singing Friar from Assisi, will give three concerts in Ireland in March. 'We are really pleased that we were able to secure the concerts. Unfortunately we could only get dates for Galway, Dublin and Cork.'

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